Mrs Condie has proposed council lease the vacant land on the corner of Wason and Thomas streets, Milton to “solve Milton’s parking woes”.

While parents are thrilled with the proposal due to a lack of parking in the immediate vicinity of Milton Primary School and safety corners while crossing the Princes Highway, a number of local business owners and community members believe another parking area in Milton is not needed. 

Local business owner, Rebecca Cameron said another parking area was unnecessary and council should focus its efforts on making upgrades to existing facilities.

“I think there is sufficient parking at the moment, it just needs some work,” she said. 

“If there were proper parking bays, kerb and gutter on Thomas Street it would be sufficient.”

Mrs Cameron agreed the safety of parents and children crossing the highway was of utmost importance, but saw no reason they could not walk from an upgraded parking area at Milton pool on Church Street.

“Money needs to be spent on this and upgrading the car park at the pool,” she said.

“Parents can walk.”

Peter, a Milton resident, said if council is prepared to make an investment in the block of land it should be used for a community park rather than parking. 

“What should happen is council should buy the land and turn it into a green space. A park,” he said. 

“Something that isn’t bitumenised would be a great feature for this town.” 

Peter is surprised council would nominate the area for an additional parking area given the views the land offers.

“It has views through to the ocean and Green Island, why you would give that view to cars defies logic,” he said. 

“A car park pays homage to the cars, not to the people of the town.

“This is the last opportunity for council to show some leadership. I hope some visionary ideas come forward.”